United States Embassy Djibouti
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens 

To: All U.S. Citizens

The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to exercise caution in light of scheduled post-election protests. The largest Djiboutian opposition party has announced plans to protest the afternoon of Tuesday, March 5, 2013. The Embassy recommends that official personnel avoid the areas of Hassan Gouled Stadium and Rue de Venice (Port Road), and that personnel not travel out of town on National Route 1 or National Route 3 as they could be blocked by the protests. These areas are frequently used by protesters and should be considered impassable while the potential for protests continues. Consider using Siesta Beach Road as the primary north-south route in the city. Private U.S. citizens living in Djibouti should consider taking similar actions for the foreseeable future.

Djibouti continues to experience frequent sporadic demonstrations. These will likely continue in the near future. These demonstrations are attended by youths who block roads with rocks or burning tires, and throw rocks at the police. The police frequently use tear gas to break up these groups.

If you see a demonstration, do not try to walk or drive through it.
Remember the importance of maintaining a low profile. Even
demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and
escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and
exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests,
or demonstrations.

Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions of local authorities. Keep a fully charged cell phone with you at all times, but develop a backup communication plan in the event that cell phone service is disrupted.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Djibouti enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy to contact you in an emergency. If you don't have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department's website at http://travel.state.gov, where you can find current Worldwide Caution,Travel Warning, and Travel Alerts. Read the Country Specific Information for Djibouti here. For additional information, refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" on the State Department's website.

Contact the U.S. embassy for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from within the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us onTwitter and Facebook, or you can download our free Smart Traveler App, available through iTunes and the Android Marketplace, to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Lot number 350-B, Lotissement Haramous, Djibouti City. The mailing address is B.P. 185, Lot number 350-B, Lotissement Haramous, Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti. U.S. citizens may contact the U.S. Embassy at any time by dialing (253) 21-453-000. Regular business hours are Sundays - Thursdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

More Messages